Herb-Roasted Turkey with Apple Cider Gravy

Ingredients

• 8 quarts water
• 2 cups coarse kosher salt
• 8 large fresh or dried bay leaves
• 2 tablespoons whole allspice
• 1 cup apple cider
• 2 large onions
• 4 cups low-salt chicken broth
• + 14 more ingredients
• • 12 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 3 tablespoons fresh thyme
  • 1 16- to 17-pound turkey; giblets removed, neck reserved
  • 2 large Granny Smith apples
  • 2 tablespoons Calvados (apple brandy) or other brandy
  • ½ cup whipping cream
  • 3 tablespoons all purpose flour
  • 2 cups apple cider
  • 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary
  • 3 tablespoons fresh marjoram
  • 3 tablespoons fresh sage
  • 3 tablespoons fresh Italian parsley
  • 2 tablespoons black peppercorns
  • 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg

Line extra-large pot or bowl with two 13-gallon (or larger) plastic bags, 1 inside the other. Combine 1 quart water, salt, bay leaves, peppercorns, and allspice in large saucepan. Stir over medium heat until salt dissolves. Remove from heat. Add 1 quart cold water and cool to lukewarm. Pour into ...

View full recipe at Epicurious